Treatment Options for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a spinal condition estimated to affect 2-3% of the population, and when severe, can threaten lung and heart function. To bring broader public awareness of scoliosis, the National Scoliosis Foundation and Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (PA) arranged for June 2008 to be first annual National Scoliosis Awareness Month. Since then each June numerous agencies, including the prestigious Scoliosis Research Society, provide information to aid in understanding the condition, means for treatment and ways to lead to early diagnosis and treatment to reduce health risk.

Scoliosis has numerous associated causes, including diseases of the muscles or nerves and those that alter bone or cartilage, but most patients have no obvious cause and are diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis is more common in women and tends to run in families, and there is growing evidence for a genetic basis controlling the condition, including a new commercially available genetic screening test to categorize children into low and high risk for curve progression. The diagnosis is typically suspected by the patient’s primary care physician or through friends and family noticing shoulder asymmetry and is confirmed by a spine specialist using x-rays. Scoliosis on an x-ray is measured by drawing lines along the borders of spine vertebrae and then calculating the angles that are generated; the condition is diagnosed when the angle is 10 degrees or greater on a back-to-front spine x-ray. Scoliosis is at greatest risk for rapid increase in size during the growth spurts that occur during childhood.

Treatments are tailored to a particular patient and are different for growing and adult patients. Mild scoliosis in either age group is observed intermittently with follow-up exams and x-rays on a regular basis to determine that the curve is not progressing. Moderate scoliosis (25-35 degrees) in children may require the patient to use a brace that supports the spine during growth to better ensure that the curve does not continue to increase in size. Adults are not braced commonly as they are not growing taller, and their scoliosis is usually managed with exercises. Severe scoliosis in either age group may require surgery to stabilize the spine, to restore a more normal alignment and to prevent further progression. Surgery in growing patients is commonly required due to relentless curvature progression, while adults tend to require surgery for arthritis and pain symptoms that can develop in the spine over time.

The information provided in this blog by HSS and our affiliated physicians is for general informational and educational purposes, and should not be considered medical advice for any individual problem you may have. This information is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a qualified health care provider who is familiar with the unique facts about your condition and medical history. You should always consult your health care provider prior to starting any new treatment, or terminating or changing any ongoing treatment. Every post on this blog is the opinion of the author and may not reflect the official position of HSS. Please contact us if we can be helpful in answering any questions or to arrange for a visit or consult.

3 Comments

Most scoliosis curves are minor and don’t require aggressive treatment, and surgery can usually correct more severe curves before they impact surrounding organs. About 2% of women and 0.5% of men have scoliosis.

ANTERIOR LEFT HIP REPLACEMENT IN FEB. SINCE THEN NO PAIN EXCEPT WHEN WALKING AFTER 100 FEET TERRIBLE PAIN -TRIED CORT SHOT – PHYSICAL PHY – SWIMMING 4 TIMES A WEEK – STILL PAIN – RECENTLY DIAGIO WITH SCOLIOSIS – COULD THIS BE THE PROBLEM – I AM SO DISPRITE – 62 YEARS OLD – TIRED OF BEING IN PAIN

We’re sorry to hear that you’re in pain. Proper diagnosis and treatment should begin with an in-person consultation. If you’d like to make an appointment with us, please contact Physician Referral Service at 877-606-1555 or visit them online at https://www.hss.edu/secure/prs-appointment-request.asp

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Located in New York City, HSS is nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the ninth consecutive year) and No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2018-19). Our mission is to provide the highest quality patient care, improve mobility and enhance the quality of life for all, and to advance the science of orthopedic surgery, rheumatology and their related disciplines through research and education. To make an appointment call 888.720.1982 or visit www.hss.edu. Please do not share personal health information on this site.